Design Styles in Handmade Jewelry

September 21, 2010 By jbrana Leave a Comment

Fold Formed Copper Leaf Earrings with Traditional Green Patina

Organic Jewelry vs Geometric Jewelry

The world of jewelry is truly diverse thanks to the range of artistic talent out there. When studying the many items available these days, it becomes clear that there are two major design styles in the jewelry world: organic and geometric. Both of these can be used to enhance the appearance in different ways.

Organic Jewelry

Organic jewelry is typically made from natural products such as bone, shells or wood. It can also be created using irregular gemstones such as coral or pearls or by shaping different metals into organic patterns. Jewelers use these materials, along with some inspiration from various natural settings, to design their stunning organic jewelry collections.

Aluminum Brass Small Circle Earrings with Onyx

Geometric Jewelry

Geometric jewelry is the polar opposite of their organic counterparts. Made with regular shapes ranging from simple cubes and spheres to the more complex gemstone cuts, these items scream out to the world that man definitely was responsible for creating objects of this beauty. They can be just as stunning, if not more so, than organic jewelry depending on the situation.

Natural-looking items combining irregular shapes with organic colors exude a very casual feel. These pieces of organic jewelry are great for taking the edge off formal attire or making a playful dress or top even more colorful. Natural materials such as coral and Keishi pearls are completely unique in their appearance, so that jewelry such as the Carnelian necklaces from John S. Brana are one-of-a-kind.

As can be expected, geometric jewelry is better suited for plain or formal clothing. They provide the wearer with a look of elegance and style that would not be out of place in a high-class dinner or at a night at the opera. This type of jewelry is also great to bring out at big occasions such as proposals, weddings and anniversaries.

Textured Metal Jewelry

September 15, 2010 By jbrana Leave a Comment

Bubble Embossed Tear Drop Copper Earrings

Metal Jewelry Textures

A skilled jeweler will be able to create a wide variety of textures on any sheet of metal. These can be used to form pieces of jewelry, which are irregular, smooth or are covered with more detailed patterns such as ripples or bubbles.

Hammered Metal Jewelry

Metal jewelry that has simply been hammered will have a rough, uneven texture due to how the hammer strikes the metal. Pieces such as John S. Brana’s hammered copper bracelets are hand crafted and are very on trend and stylish.

Metal Jewelry Polishing Techniques

To remove the flaws from a piece of metal jewelry, whether from hammering or otherwise, a jeweler generally has to polish it. This is achieved by using a work wheel and a fine abrasive. Polishing is great for creating flawless pieces of jewelry. For something a little more interesting, brushed metal jewelry can be made by rubbing fine sandpaper over the surface. This creates many minute lines and removes some of the metal’s lustre giving it a much more distinctive look.

Embossed Metal Jewelry

Bubble jewelry is formed by embossing the metal’s surface with a pattern of various-sized, connected circles. Examples of this style include John S. Brana’s handmade aluminum bubble earrings, which have a very natural appearance.

Aluminum Cuff with Bark Texture

Chased Metal Jewelry

Finally, lines can also be added to metal. These come in a variety of patterns such as the radial design found on John S. Brana’s chased copper scarf ring, or the more natural style of his corrugated copper disc earrings. The diversity of these items is limited only by the jewelers imagination.

The fact that metal is so malleable, means that master craftsmen across the globe can create bracelets, necklaces and earrings which will suit almost anyone’s tastes and which can be worn in a large number of situations. Metal jewelry is so versatile and is a true gift from both these expert jewelers and Mother Nature herself.

Metalsmithing 101 – The Jewelers Toolbox

August 9, 2010 By jbrana Leave a Comment

14K Gold Filled Chased Bangle Bracelet

Techniques of Master Jewelers

Working and shaping metal into exquisite pieces of jewelry takes time, patience and the knowledge of various metalworking techniques such as chasing, repoussé, hammering and piercing. Expert craftsmen, like John S. Brana, use a variety of techniques on each piece of jewelry to create the various masterpieces within their collection.

Chasing and repoussé are both very similar techniques used to form patterns on the surface of a metal. A jeweler chases metal by forming imprints on it without altering the reverse side. These markings are clearly seen on the chased gold and copper bracelets by John S. Brana. With repoussé, a raised design is formed on the front by working the back of a metal sheet.

Basic Jewelers Tools

Hammering is the most basic technique but is also one of the most versatile. By striking hot or cold metal with a hammer, the craftsman is able to bend and twist it as desired. Jewelers typically use an iron bench block for a solid base and a highly polished planishing hammer so as not to leave unwanted marks on the metal’s surface after it has been shaped.

Chased Copper Triangle Earrings with Garnets

Piercing with a Jewelers Saw

Piercing is exactly what it sounds like. The jeweler will remove pieces out of a metal surface and create intricate shapes by using a very fine saw blade. A drill will have to be used first if the hole is to be made in the center of the metal sheet. For an example of this, have a look at the chased copper earrings with garnets by John S. Brana. These feature an oval hole which would have been created by piercing.

Using a combination of these techniques, jewelers all over the globe are now creating stunning earrings, necklaces and bracelets in a multitude of designs, so that we can enjoy wearing a range of accessories while out and about.

Peridot – August’s Birthstone

August 1, 2010 By jbrana Leave a Comment

14K Gold Fold Formed Earrings with Faceted Peridot

The History of Peridot in Jewelry

The green and gold hues of the gem, peridot, have been in high demand for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptian priests drank to the goddess, Isis, from cups made out of the stone. This connection with a higher power continued over the ages, and peridot can now be found within many medieval churches and in European artwork, specifically from the baroque period. In modern times, jewelers continue to use this stone to make stunning bracelets, necklaces and much more. For example, many amazing pieces from John S. Brana contain peridot, like his hammered copper earrings and his sterling silver starfish rings.

Sterling Silver Starfish Ring with Peridot

Peridot is August’s Birthstone

Not only do the inner impurities and amazing green color of peridot make it a truly breathtaking gem, but it is also the birthstone for those born in August. Because its interior seems almost alive, peridot is representative of vitality and strength. It signifies inner power and long-lasting relationships, as well as future success and positive growth. The stone is also said to have many mystical properties such as reliving stress, healing the heart, enhancing fame, and boosting the potency of medicinal products. All of this makes a piece of peridot jewelry the perfect gift for all those August babies.

August’s Birthstone in Handmade Designer Jewelry

The gem, peridot, looks great no matter where it is used. Everyone from the ancient Egyptians to the baroque artists knew of this fact. Luckily, the stone still looks fantastic today and can be found in modern-day jewelry such as rings and bracelets. John S. Brana’s chalk turquoise necklace contains peridots mixed in with the other gems while his gold fold formed leaf earrings also contain the stone. No matter what item catches your eye, that sparkling green found in the peridots within will make it something you wish to wear everywhere, regardless of whether it is your birthstone or not.

The Best of Both Worlds: Gold Gemstone Jewelry

March 25, 2009 By John S. Brana 5 Comments

Gemstone Handmade Jewelry by John S. Brana

Amber and Crystal Beaded Gemstone Necklace by John S. Brana Handmade Jewelry

If you are looking for sheer elegance and class, nothing beats gold gemstone jewelry. These pieces combine the simple glamor of gold with distinctive gemstones that reflect the personality and style of the wearer. When buying this type of jewelry, there are several things you need to pay attention to.

The quality of the gold that makes up any kind of gold gemstone jewelry is essential. Of course, you want the highest quality gold, which is measured in karats. No piece of jewelry will ever be made with 24k gold, so beware any jeweler who tries to sell you “24k gold”. This type of gold is too pure and too malleable to be worked into jewelry, and quite frankly, is too expensive. Only a king or queen would ever have anything made from 24k gold!

Most quality gold used in jewelry ranges from 10k to 22k. The higher the rating, the higher the price. It is typical for most jewelry to be made from 14k gold, although 18k is preferred by most quality jewelers.

Gemstones have their own rating system. Diamonds are also measured in carats (with a “c” instead of a “k”), and the higher the rating, the higher the price. Diamonds fall under the category of “precious stones”, along with emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. A lot of gemstone jewelry, however, is made from semi-precious stones which are not as expensive, but can be equally beautiful and unique.

Gold gemstone jewelry made from semi-precious gemstones such as jade, lapis, onyx, turquoise, opals, and amber can be as beautiful as any piece including diamonds or sapphires. The quality of the gold, the uniqueness of the gemstone, and the exemplary craftsmanship of a master jeweler can make this type of jewelry worth wearing for a lifetime and handing down to your children.

Click Here To Find Gold Gemstone Jewelry

Handmade Gemstone Jewelry – A Classic Timeless Look

March 20, 2009 By John S. Brana 3 Comments

When you think of handmade gemstone jewelry, you may think of your weird aunt, still living in the 1960’s and her macramé beaded “creations.” Or, you may think of the junky trinkets sold at your local art and crafts fairs. But not to fear, there is another type of handmade jewelry that is neither tacky, “retro”, nor prone to falling to pieces after a few times of wear.

Modern, high-end jewelers create handmade gemstone jewelry that will stand the test of time and hold up against any piece you could find in any store. “Handmade” does not mean “homemade” – it means that it was crafted by a professional, a craftsman, and someone who cares about and takes pride in the work they do. There is nothing quirky or tasteless about it.

If you have seen the handmade creations of modern jewelers, you will see nothing like what you imagined. Handmade jewelry can be exquisite, intricate, and timeless. Take a look at women walking down any red carpet event and you will see them adorned with many different types of handmade pieces. Jewelry that appears to come from the larger jewelers may well be handmade creations, custom-made for just such occasions. In fact, in many cases, you can’t tell a quality piece of handmade jewelry from those of famous well-know jewelry designers.

When evaluating handmade gemstone jewelry, the first thing you must insist on is quality materials. Only the highest quality metals and gemstones should be used, and all settings and clasps must be the best available. Any reputable jeweler will allow you to see how and where he works, the materials he uses, and often the sources he utilizes to get his materials. A jeweler of character and distinction will want to design a piece of jewelry that you are proud of and one that will attract the attention you deserve.

Click Here To Find Distinctive Handmade Gemstone Jewelry

Handmade Sterling Silver Jewelry: A Gift for Anyone

March 14, 2009 By John S. Brana 3 Comments

Hammered Sterling Silver Disc Earrings by John S. Brana Some of the most beautiful, yet affordable, pieces of jewelry you can find are made of Sterling Silver. Handmade Sterling Silver jewelry can be worn with nearly any style of clothing, to any occasion, and can be worn year-round. No one would turn down a gift of Sterling Silver jewelry. Sterling Silver refers to silver that is .925 pure. Unless pure silver is hammered, it is usually too soft for most jewelry applications. The derivation of the term, “Sterling Silver” is not agreed upon by experts. Some historians say that it refers to the British “pound Sterling”, while others say that Sterling Silver originally was developed in Sterlingshire, Scotland. Sterlingshire had a large silver mine, and because of this, most historians believe this derivation to be true. In addition, there are several other theories as to why silver that is .925 pure is called Sterling.

However, handmade sterling silver jewelry is more than just the silver itself. Silver is a difficult metal to work with and a jeweler who works with Sterling Silver must be a master craftsman. Silver jewelry is often intricate and exquisite, reflecting the personality of the wearer.

When purchasing handmade sterling silver jewelry, especially if it’s a gift, make sure that the silver used is, in fact, solid Sterling Silver. Many low priced, massed produced jewelry (especially those made overseas) are actually plated silver jewelry, even though they are marked .925. Plated Silver (sometimes referred to as Overlay or Technibond) is electroplated silver over a base pot metal (usually tin, aluminum, or zinc), and thus, is not solid Sterling Silver. Not only will plated silver jewelry quickly tarnish, the plate commonly wears off and also might cause allergic reactions. On the other hand, Sterling Silver may tarnish over time, but will wear well, day in and day out with little care. Many low-end jewelers or craftsman will sell anything with a silver color and tell you that it is sterling silver. Remember, “You get what you pay for”, so if a piece of jewelry appears to be under-priced, beware. Establishing a trusted relationship with your local jeweler or jewelry designer is well worth your effort. A good piece of handmade sterling silver jewelry will reflect the work in its price, and any quality piece is worth paying for.

Click Here To Find Handmade Sterling Silver Jewelry

A Special Offer for Mother’s Day – 20% Off

April 29, 2007 By John S. Brana 1 Comment

I would like to extend to you a first sale special and a wonderful opportunity to stock up on my one-of-a-kind couture jewelry at www.johnsbrana.com

All Shopping Cart items will be discounted (20%) in celebration of Mother’s Day. This special sale starts May 1 thru 13^th and features 4 collections:Barbary Coast: Colorful and festive, these pieces are perfect for those who want to leave a lasting impression.

Sea Cliff: Perfect for Sea lovers with a fondness for pearls

SoMa: Sleek and contemporary, the ideal “basic” collection for everyone

Pacific Heights: Sheer opulence, bold and sophisticated. Many of these designs are regularly featured in local, national, and international magazines including JCK (Jewelers’ Circular Keystone), JQ (International Jewelry Quorum), Jewellery World Review, City Magazine, and 7×7 San Francisco Magazine.

Mother’s Day is less than two weeks away and supplies are limited, so act now!

Jewelers’ Circular Keystone features jewelry designer John S Brana’s “Pearl of the Sea Ring” in What’s New in Jewelry – December 2006

January 16, 2007 By John S. Brana Leave a Comment

JCK – Jewelers’ Circular Keystone – www.jckonline.com - is currently featuring my “Pearl of the Sea Ring” in the “What’s New in Jewelry” December 2006 issue. The monthly section of “What’s New in Jewelry” features new designs and upcoming jewelry designers in the Fine Jewelry industry. John S. Brana’s “Pearl of the Sea Ring” from the Sea Cliff Collection is featured on page 88.

The Sea Cliff Collection features unique pieces that are bold in scale and accented with dramatic sea creatures, unusually shaped beads, and precious and semi-precious gemstones. Because each piece in this line of marine-themed necklaces, rings, and brooches is fashioned from hand-selected elements, no two are alike. The result is striking jewelry that truly makes a splash. Click here to see more of the Sea Cliff Collection.

Design Styles in Handmade Jewelry

Organic Jewelry vs Geometric Jewelry

Organic Jewelry

Geometric Jewelry

Recommended Reading

Textured Metal Jewelry

Metal Jewelry Textures

Hammered Metal Jewelry

Metal Jewelry Polishing Techniques

Embossed Metal Jewelry

Chased Metal Jewelry

Recommended Reading

Metalsmithing 101 – The Jewelers Toolbox

Techniques of Master Jewelers

Basic Jewelers Tools

Piercing with a Jewelers Saw

Recommended Reading

Peridot – August’s Birthstone

The History of Peridot in Jewelry

Peridot is August’s Birthstone

August’s Birthstone in Handmade Designer Jewelry

Recommended Reading

The Best of Both Worlds: Gold Gemstone Jewelry

Recommended Reading

Handmade Gemstone Jewelry – A Classic Timeless Look

Recommended Reading

Handmade Sterling Silver Jewelry: A Gift for Anyone

Recommended Reading

A Special Offer for Mother’s Day – 20% Off

Recommended Reading

Jewelers’ Circular Keystone features jewelry designer John S Brana’s “Pearl of the Sea Ring” in What’s New in Jewelry – December 2006

Recommended Reading

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